45263 - Physiology of Cognitive Functions

Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is to describe the neurophysiological bases of mental functions, and specifically of cognitive functions.

All our behaviours are generated by changes in neuronal activity, which can be described from different points of view(molecular, biochemical or electrical). Specific neuronal activation or deactivation produces specific behaviours. Not long ago attributing a particular aspect of behaviour to an unobservable mental process (such as planning a movement or remembering an event) was thought to be a reason forexcluding this aspect of behaviourfrom experimental analysis. Today our ability to visualize functional changes during normal mental activity permits even complex cognitive processes to be studied directly.

We will start from the analysis of differences between the human brain and the brain of other animal species. In particular, we will explore cerebral cortex organization through a comparative approach. Then neurophysiological bases of congitive functions, such as attention, learning and memory, language and emotions, will be illustrated

Course contents

1. Human brain evolution

2. Attention

3. Learning and Memory

3.1 Explicit and Implicit memory

3.2 Memory disorders

4. Language

4.1 Role of left and right cerebral hemispheres in language

5. Emotion: the limbic system

6. Sleep

Readings/Bibliography

D Purves, EM Brannon, R Cabeza et al. Principles of Cognitive Neuroscience. Sinauer Associates, 2008.

or

M Gazzaniga, RB Ivry, GR Mangun Cognitive Neuroscience W. W. Norton & Company; 2 edition (January 2002)

and

MJ Zigmond, FE Bloom, SC Landis, JL Roberts, LR Squire Foundamental Neuroscience : section VII: Behavioral and cognitive neuroscience, Academic Press (only cap. 50)

Teaching methods

The course is based on lectures. However, students are expected to take an active role in discussion.

Assessment methods

Written test with open-response questions.

Teaching tools

Slides (PowerPoint). Reading material for this course will be made availableon the course website.

Links to further information

http://servizi.psice.unibo.it/docenti/index.asp?pagina=scheda_docente_info.asp&IDdocente=92

Office hours

See the website of Giovanna Zoccoli